Regina Mosque opens doors to all

Mosques across the country invited Canadians inside to promote unity and understanding of the Islamic religion.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim community invited everyday people to partake in the “Visit the Mosque” campaign today.

Around 25 mosques across the country, including the Mahmood Mosque in Regina, were open for visits and give people a chance to learn about the faith.

“If we can reach out to each other and understand each other and develop that harmony and establish those bridges,” said Imam Zeeshan Ahmed. “That will not only allow us to have a better society but it will leave a better tomorrow for our children.”

Cody Hutchinson waited outside the mosque until after the prayers were finished, holding a sign reading “You are welcome. You are loved. Canada wants you here. As-Salamu Alay Kum”

“I thought I’d take a page from that fella from Texas that held up signs of support so I figured I’d do the same,” Hutchinson said.

The campaign was created due to Canadians seeking opportunities to stand in solidarity with the Muslim community after a deadly shooting at a Quebec Mosque.

“At a moment where people tried to divide us, we were united and that’s exactly what it means to be a Canadian,” Ahmed said.

Saskatoon’s Ahmadiyya Muslim community also opened their doors Friday afternoon for the “Visit a Mosque” campaign.

People were invited to tour the nearly-complete Darur Rahmat at 101 Boychuk Drive, set to be the biggest mosque on the prairies.